Take Your Mask Off

I’m used to meeting people in difficult places. In the middle of great crisis is where most ministry opportunity begins. One thing I’ve noticed over time is how so many people feel compelled to apologize for how they are feeling and where they are in the moment. I just feel compelled to tell them it’s alright to struggle, to doubt, to wonder, and to not have everything figured out. Really what I’m saying is it’s alright to be human my friend and take your mask off.

Most who really know me know I’ve been wandering through a painful, uncertain wilderness for some time. Honestly, I feel guilty ever telling anyone how I truly feel. Sometimes it’s because I would like them to think I’m not falling apart. Sometimes it’s because I really don’t want to think about it myself. Yet, many times it’s because I only end up feeling guilty for my struggle, my doubts, and my fears.

For the person secretly struggling please know you’re not alone. All of us have things and seasons we go through where life just knocks us to our knees. In these humbling moments just getting up each morning can be a chore. Just taking one step forward in the middle of the storm is an accomplishment. Don’t ever think you need to apologize for where life finds you. You can only be where you are at the moment.

Scripture makes it clear that confession is healing. It’s healing to be real and raw with those who really care about you. It’s healing to process what’s so heavy on your heart. It’s healing to acknowledge that without divine intervention you can’t get up or walk another step. It’s healing to not have to wear a mask pretending like everything is fine when everything is not fine. It’s healing to simply come to Jesus “as you are” so that he can give you rest.

Jesus said, “Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. (Matthew 11:28-29)

“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” (James 5:16)